Other Expenses (Details 2) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Restructuring Charges
Balance, beginning of period	$ 0
Restructuring charges	159
Cash payments	(136)
Balance, end of period	23
Total restructuring charges incurred since inception of restructuring plans	159
American Life Insurance Company ("American Life") and Delaware American Life Insurance ("DelAm") [Member]
Restructuring Charges
Balance, beginning of period	13	10	0
Restructuring charges	10	46	10
Cash payments	(21)	(43)	0
Balance, end of period	2	13	10
Total restructuring charges incurred since inception of restructuring plans	$ 66	$ 56	$ 10